Let's go to the Hop

Bring lots of energy, a good pair of shoes and some painkillers if you're off to Whangamata's Beach Hop.
The energy because there's so much to do through to the wee small hours; the walking shoes because you won't be able to move anywhere in a vehicle as thousands of vehicles cause traffic jams; and the painkillers for the headaches and sore feet ...
The seaside town's regular population of about 3500 is expected to be boosted to a record 70,000-plus as the 11-year-old event introduces more activities.
What began as the Whangamata Rock 'n' Roll Festival in 2001 has grown to include hot rods, dragsters, classic cars and old caravans, as well as having bands at venues around the district.
Warm-up to tomorrow's major events in Whangamata began at Waihi on Wednesday.
Locals there said they had never seen so many cars taking part.
Yesterday was Tairua's turn to get a glimpse of about 600 cars and today they will be turning up the sounds at a gathering in Onemana.
All through Whangamata, the population has adopted - and adapted to - the huge event. Those who enjoy it stay and take part; those who don't rent out their homes and leave town for the few days.
Those who stay in town enjoy not only the cars and other vehicles but make the most of dancing in the streets in the evening, eating, catching with old mates from previous Hops, taking part in the trivia quiz, the car-parts fashion show, Beach Hop Idol and other varied events. There's even a best moustache and beard competition.
Fans of classic cars and the rock 'n' roll era of the 50's and 60's have come to Whangamata from all over New Zealand as well as the US, England, Australia and Germany.
Most participants are happy to swap yarns and enjoy the company of like-minded people, and seldom is there much trouble.
For more Beach Hop photos, get your copy of Bay of Plenty Times Weekend on Saturday morning.